Asphalt Plant Loader Operator

Under the immediate direction of the Lead person or Supervisor, the Equipment Operator is responsible for operating mobile equipment while moving raw materials from train to stockpile and loading finished products. Additional responsibilities include maintaining roadways and loading areas for designated business unit.

JOB SUMMARY

The Equipment Operator II is a mid-level role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy mobile equipment and stationary plant machinery essential to asphalt production. The Equipment Operator II is expected to possess a higher degree of technical proficiency, performing complex maneuvers and assisting in the mechanical troubleshooting of the plant.

The primary objective of this role is to manage raw material stockpiles, feed the plant 'cold bins' with precision to maintain mix integrity, and ensure the continuous flow of production. This individual serves as a critical link between the yard and the high-heat production environment, maintaining a commitment to Martin Marietta's Guardian Angel safety culture.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate heavy front-end loaders (Cat 980 or 988 series) to feed cold feed bins
• Organize and maintain stockpiles to prevent segregation and moisture buildup; manage the 'pushing up' of materials to maximize yard space.
• Skillfully operate skid steers, water trucks for dust control, backhoes, and man-lifts as required for plant maintenance and site cleanliness.
• Monitor and report on raw material quality (e.g., excessive moisture or oversized rock) before it enters the production stream.
• Assist the Plant Operator in monitoring conveyor speeds, temperature gauges, and asphalt oil flow to ensure the final product meets DOT specifications.
• identify and diagnose early signs of mechanical failure in conveyors, screens, and crushers. Perform minor field repairs such as replacing idlers, adjusting belt tracking, or clearing blockages.
• Function as a relief or secondary operator for the scale house, weighing out trucks and generating load tickets using specialized plant software.
• Perform daily 'walk-around' inspections and document fluid levels, tire pressures, and grease points.
• Assist the maintenance crew during 'shutdowns' with tasks including liner replacements, baghouse filter changes, and welding/cutting (if certified).
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment by removing 'spill' buildup under conveyors and around the drum using shovels and skid steers.
• Maintain strict compliance with OSHA regulations, including the proper use of PPE and Fall Protection.
• Perform Pre-Shift Inspections (PSI). Identify and mitigate site hazards through the Near-Miss reporting system.
• Monitor for oil leaks or spills and follow company protocols for containment and cleanup to protect the local environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience

CDL Class A or B is significant plus

Work Experience

1+ years of experience operating heavy equipment, specifically in an asphalt plant environment, is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Mechanical aptitude

Computer literacy

Troubleshooting

Critical thinking

OSHA compliance and regulations

Effective communicator (written and spoken)

Time management

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Physical Requirements

Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. for plant maintenance and equipment servicing.

Required to bend, stoop, climb, and reach. You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders.

Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good depth perception with or without seeing aid for distances up to 150 feet.

Working Conditions

All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all weather conditions, cold, wet, dry and dusty.andnbsp;Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dbs.

Union

We are excited to share the base hourly rate for this position is $35.51+. Membership with the International Union ofandnbsp;Operating Engineers Local Union No, 9andnbsp;is required upon hire. Condition and terms of employment and benefits are in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.andnbsp;